STRL33, A Human Fusion Accessory Factor Associated With HIV Infection
Description of Invention:
STRL33 is a seven transmembrane domain G protein coupled receptor which appears to be a novel chemokine receptor-like protein functioning as a fusion cofactor for both macrophage-tropic and T cell-tropic HIV-1. Cells expressing STRL33 along with CD4 are capable of fusing with cells expressing the envelope glycoprotein (env) of M-tropic and T-tropic HIV-1 variants, thereby mediating fusion with a wider range of variants than other cofactors identified to date. As the STRL33 protein appears to be directly related to the development of HIV infection and progression to AIDS, agents which are capable of blocking the STRL33 receptor may represent valuable tools for use in the prevention or treatment of HIV-1/AIDS. Polynucleotides and polypeptides are provided by the invention. Therapeutic approaches and pharmaceutical compositions are claimed, as are research uses, and are available for licensing.
Inventors:
J Farber F Liao G Alkhatib EA Berger (NIAID)
Patent Status:
DHHS Reference No. E-087-97/0 filed 31 Mar 1997
PCT/US98/06517 filed 31 Mar 1998
For Additional Information Please Contact: Sally Hu PhD MBA
NIH Office of Technology Transfer
6011 Executive Blvd, Suite 325
Rockville, MD 20852-3804
Phone: (301) 435-5606
Email: hus@mail.nih.gov
Fax: (301) 402-0220
